Ear infections are a very common issue among dogs and can cause significant discomfort if left untreated. Unfortunately, dogs can’t tell us when their ears ache, leaving it to us to understand the symptoms.
Understanding the basics behind ear infections is crucial for every dog owner. In this comprehensive guide, we will examine how ear infections occur, the types of dogs they usually affect, and how to prevent them.
First: How Ear Infections Happen
Ear infections in dogs usually occur when bacteria, fungi, or yeast find space to live and grow in the ear canal. The ear is a complex structure and can be divided into three separate parts: the outer ear, the middle ear, and the inner ear. Infections usually start in the outer ear and can spread inward if not treated as soon as possible.
Several factors can contribute to ear infections, including:
- Moisture: Water can become trapped in a dog’s ear after swimming or bathing, creating the perfect environment for bacterial or fungal growth.
- Allergies: Dogs with allergies, whether to food or environmental factors, are far more prone to ear infections. Allergens can cause inflammation and an overproduction of earwax, leading to bacterial growth.
- Ear mites: Like ticks and fleas, mites are tiny parasites that can crawl into the ear, causing skin irritation and open sores.
- Foreign bodies: Objects such as grass seeds can become lodged in the ear canal, leading to infection and irritation.
- Hormonal imbalances: Conditions, such as hypothyroidism, can predispose dogs to ear infections by affecting the skin’s immune response and overall health.
Recognizing Symptoms of Ear Infections
Recognizing the symptoms of ear infections can prevent severe complications and promote quicker recovery. Here are five key symptoms to watch for:
1. Ear Scratching and Head Shaking
Dogs with ear infections will often scratch their ears or shake their heads frequently––as though trying to get water out of their ears. This behavior is a response to irritation and discomfort caused by the infection.
2. Redness and Swelling
Infected ears often appear red and swollen due to inflammation. The inner ear flap and ear canal will also look very irritated.
3. Discharge from the Ear
Ear infections can cause various types of discharge which can be brown, yellow, or bloody. The discharge can have an unpleasant odor, which is a huge sign of bacterial or yeast infection. A dog may stick their foot in their ear, then smell the discharge on their paw. As gross as this may seem, dogs navigate the world through smell, and the pus gives them important information about their bodies’ health.
4. Foul Odor
A strong, foul smell coming from your dog’s ear is a typical symptom of ear infection. This odor is a result of bacterial or yeast overgrowth and is usually noticeable even from a distance. This is not an odor you can remove with a bath, and putting water in your dog’s ears might irritate them further.
Dog Breeds at Risk for Ear Infections
While any dog can develop an ear infection, certain breeds and individual dogs can be much more susceptible because of their anatomical features, lifestyles, or underlying health conditions. Breeds with long, floppy ears, such as Basset Hounds, Cocker Spaniels, and Golden Retrievers, are far more prone to infections.
This is because their ear structure can easily trap moisture and debris which then turns into a breeding ground for bacteria and yeast. On top of this, dogs that swim frequently such as Labrador Retrievers are at higher risk. Dogs who deal with common allergies or chronic skin conditions are also more susceptible to recurring ear infections.
How a Veterinarian May Diagnose Canine Ear Infections
If you suspect that your dog has an ear infection, it is of the utmost importance to seek veterinary care as soon as possible. Ear infections can cause significant pain and discomfort and, if left untreated, can lead to more serious issues, such as chronic ear disease and dog deafness.
Depending on the severity of the infection, your veterinarian may conduct a(n):
- Otoscopy: Using an otoscope to look deep into the ear canal for signs of infections, foreign bodies, or tumors.
- Cytology: Collecting samples of the ear discharge to examine under a microscope. This helps to identify whether the infection is caused by parasites, yeast, or bacteria.
- Culture and sensitivity test: In chronic or severe cases, your vet may perform these tests to identify the specific bacteria and determine the most effective antibiotics.
Many seasoned vets can tell if a dog has an ear infection by simply smelling the dog’s inner ear. As noted, these illnesses produce a discharge that has a signature odor.
The Treatments for Ear Infections in Dogs
There are many different treatments on the market right now for ear infections. These include:
- Ear cleaners: Solutions used to clean the ear canal and remove debris or excess wax.
- Topical medications: Antibiotic or antifungal ear drops to treat the infection directly.
- Oral medications: In severe cases, oral antibiotics or antifungal medications may be necessary to get rid of the infection.
Depending on the severity of your dog’s infection, your vet may choose to put your dog under more thorough treatment to get on top of the infection. This can admittedly get costly. If you have pet insurance, your provider could cover some or all of the treatments needed.
Preventing Ear Infections in Your Dog
Preventing ear infections involves maintaining good ear hygiene and addressing underlying health issues. You can prevent ear infections and other common illnesses in your dog by:
- Regular ear cleaning: Clean your dog’s ears regularly with a vet-recommended ear cleaner, especially after swimming or bathing. Avoid using cotton swabs in the ear canal as they can push debris further in and cause damage.
- Keeping your dog’s ears dry: Ensure your dog’s ears are thoroughly dried after water exposure. Use a soft towel and gently dry the ear flaps and outer ear canal.
- Managing their allergies: Work with your vet to manage your dog’s allergies via diet, medications, and lifestyle changes.
- Scheduling regular vet visits: Regular check-ups can help detect any early signs of ear infections and address the underlying conditions that predispose your dog to infections. Ask your vet specific questions about avoiding future ear infections.
- Grooming as required: Trimming any excess hair around the ears “airs them out” and prevents bacterial buildup.
